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MEMORIES 


BY 


KATHLEEN  A.  SULLIVAN 


ARTIetveRITATI; 


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BOSTON 
RICHARD  G.  BADGER 

The  Gorham   Press 
1905 


d- 


Copyright  1904  by  KATHLEEN  A.   SULLIVAN 
All  Rights  Reserved 


Printed  at 

THE  GORHAM  PRESS 

Boston,  U.  S,  A. 


TO  MY  DEAR  MOTHER, 
THIS  BOOKLET  IS  INSCRIBED 


M191922 


CONTENTS 

Page. 

Christmas  Bells   7 

Benediction    8 

The  Vale  of  Silence 9 

A  Dream  of  Life lo 

Somewhere 1 1 

Vanished  Faces I2 

Evening 1 3 

The  Sister  of  Mercy 14 

Rest  15 

In  May 16 

A  Vision 17 

Face  to  Face 19 

Evening  Shadows 20 

Keep  Me  Near  to  God 21 

Auf  Wiedersehen   22 

A  Little  Angel  Friend 23 

Smiles 26 

Easter 27 

I  am  Longing  to  see  you  Tonight 28 

The  Isle  of  Sweet  Erin 29 

Through  Death  to  Life 30 

A  Longing 31 

My  Friend  of  Long  Ago 32 

The  Music  of  Life 34 

Autumn    36 


Page. 

Three  Journeys 37 

I  Miss  You 39 

Forgiveness   40 

A  Little  Girl  I  Know 41 

Loveland   42 

A  Soul's  Sorrow 43 

Heaven 45 

Two  Voyages 46 

Heimweh    47 

October,  Month  of  the  Holy  Angels 48 

A  Memory 50 

To  a  Friend 5 1 

The  Storm   53 

May    55 

July  Vacation  56 

My  Picture  Book 57 

Hymn  for  Lent 59 

Feast  of  Purification    60 

A  Little  Maid  of  Three 61 

The  River  Avon 62 


CHRISTMAS  BELLS 

Christmas  bells  are  ringing, 
Joy  is  everywhere — 
Sweet  symphonious  music 
Fills  the  earth  and  air. 

Listen  to  the  murmurs 
Coming  from  above, 
Bringing  to  all  mortals 
News  of  peace  and  love. 

From  a  little  manger 
Far  in  Bethlehem 
Comes  the  simple  message, 
"Peace,  good  will  to  men"; 

Borne  by  angel  spirits 
Over  all  the  land — 
Gates  of  Heaven  are  opened 
By  a  Baby's  hand. 

Glory  to  Our  Saviour, 
Babe  of  Bethlehem. 
Who  has  brought  redemption, 
*Teace,  good  will  to  men!" 

Glory  to  the  Christ  child. 
Heaven's  mighty  King: 
May  His  name  in  praises 
Through  all  nations  ring! 


BENEDICTION 

An  altar,  all  ablaze  with  light; 
A  Heavenly  stillness  in  the  air; 
A  solemn  dread,  a  holy  awe; 
A  congregation  bowed  in  prayer: 

Low,  deep  the  tones  of  music  grand 
From  out  the  organ  standing  near; 
A  rapture  in  the  hearts  of  all ; 
A  feeling  as  of  angels  near: 

Our  Lord  looks  down  upon  the  scene 
From  His  dear  sacramental  Throne; 
He  left  His  Home  in  Heaven  above 
To  bide  on  earth  among  His  own. 

He  pours  His  silent  blessings  on 
The  multitude  assembled  there ; 
All  hearts  bow  low  beneath  His  Love 
And  homage  pay — in  voiceless  prayer. 


THE  VALE  OF  SILENCE 

Ah,  I  have  felt  a  silence,  not  of  earth. 
Not  sad,  but  peaceful,  with  a  peace  supreme; 
Naught  broke  its  quiet  but  the  golden  notes 
Of  a  soul's  thoughts  in  an  ecstatic  dream: 

And  I  have  felt  a  mantle,  not  of  earth 
Thrown  o'er  me,  as  to  shield  me  from  all  woe, 
For  I  have  glanced  at  times  from  worldly  paths 
Into  the  Narrow  Way,  Where  the  few  go. 

Who  are  the  chosen  ones  of  Our  Dear  Lord  ? 
Whom  He  doth  beckon  with  a  gentle  Hand 
To  follow  Him  through  earth's  hard  stubble  fields, 
Unto  the  brighter,  happier  Heavenly  Land. 

Ah,  once  my  feet  grew  weary  and  delayed. 
My  perseverance  could  not  bear  the  test; 
But  O,  the  road  behind  grew  rougher  far 
For  having  seen  the  pathway  of  the  Blessed: 

And  now  I  stand  all  silent  and  alone, 
Before  me  lies  a  cross,  I  fear  to  take. 
While  here  behind,  I  loathe  the  cruel  world, 
"O  Lord,"  I  plead,  "help  me  the  trial  make, 

"O  give  me  Faith,  the  Faith  of  Thy  dear  few 
Who  follow  in  Thy  own  love-chosen  way. 
So  I  may  grow  more  patient,  fervent,  strong. 
And  nearer  come  to  Thee,  from  day  to  day." 


A  DREAM  OF  LIFE 

Two  cooing,  helpless,  loving  babes; 
Two  chattering  toddlers  small ; 
Two  playmates  'neath  the  cooling  shades 
Of  oaktrees,  grim  and  tall. 

Two  pupils  in  the  selfsame  school, 
A  youth  and  maiden  fair  ; 
Naught  know  they  of  the  dreary  rule 
Of  Life,  so  full  of  care. 

Two  lovers  in  the  eventide ; 
Two  lives  now  blent  in  one ; 
Two  graves  upon  the  hillside; 
And  thus  the  dream  is  done. 


lO 


SOMEWHERE 

Somewhere  afar  beyond  this  dreary  world 
There  lies  a  Land — a  Land  where  all  is  fair; 
Dear  fond  companions  of  past  happy  years, 
And  loving  friends,  long  parted  'wait  me  there. 

Somewhere  among  the  radiant  throngs  that  move 
In  splendor,  through  that  Haven  of  the  Blessed, 
A  sweet  saint  spirit  guards  some  chosen  spot 
Where  someday,  I  shall  find  my  longed-for  rest. 

O  dear  bright  Land  of  peace  and  purest  joy, 
Our  last,  our  truest  and  our  happiest  Home ! 
Somewhere  afar  within  your  flowery  vales 
My  little  sister  peacefully  doth  roam. 

Sometime,  straight  down  through  Heaven's  celestial 

blue. 
She'll  wandering  come,  and  kiss  me  unto  death. 
Somewhere,  my  spirit  tells  me,  I'll  find  joy, 
True  bliss  eternal — with  my  latest  breath. 


II 


VANISHED  FACES 

Faces  of  the  long  dead  Past, 
Come  to  me  again; 
Bring  your  mystic  music, 
Memory's  sweet  refrain! 

Throw  the  hazy  veil  aside, 
Hiding  you  from  view: 
Smile  on  me  with  loving  eyes 
As  you  used  to  do. 

Ah,  they  come,  a  phantom  band, 
Spiritual,  bright; 
Shining  with  Love's  rapture. 
Heaven's  distant  Light; 

And  I  see  the  forms  so  dear. 
That  I  used  to  know ; 
Silent  smiles  they  beam  on  me, 
Passing  to  and  fro. 

O  ye  dead  cold  shrouded  ones! 
Long  since  passed  from  view, 
Spite  of  all  earth's  toils  and  strife 
Clings  my  heart  to  you. 

Angel  ones,  ah  leave  me  ne'er. 
Watch  me  from  Above; 
Guide  me  to  your  shining  sphere, 
By  our  bond  of  love. 


13 


EVENING 

Silent  even,  peaceful  even, 
Stealing  over  earth  and  sea, 
Calm  descending,  echoes  blending 
Bringing  rest  to  you  and  me! 

Silent  even,  restful  even 
Hushing  nature  to  repose! 
Birds  are  sleeping,  stars  are  peeping 
Showing  light  at  day's  mild  close. 

Silent  even,  welcome  even 
Bringing  rest  in  quiet  sleep, 
Sweetly  blessing,  calm  caressing 
Lulling  care  in  slumber  deep ! 

Silent  even.  Holy  even 
Stealing  o'er  our  Life's  long  day. 
Softly  falling,  fondly  calling. 
Showing  us  The  Truth,  The  Way ! 


13 


THE  SISTER  OF  MERCY 

She  walks  through  the  valley  of  mystical  dreams, 
Her    sombre    garb    brightened     by    Heaven's    gold 

gleams ; 
We  hear  not  her  footfall,  as,  quiet  as  a  dove 
She  moves  on  her  errand  of  bountiful  love. 

She  reaches  her  hand  to  the  poor,  the  oppressed, 
She  comforts  the  wayward,  she  soothes  the  distressed ; 
All  world  weary  mortals  in  her  find  a  friend ; 
Her  zeal  is  unbounded,  her  love  without  end. 

She  asks  no  reward  but  the  Heaven  sent  grace 
That  encircles  her  soul,  shining  through  her  dear 

face; 
She  wishes  no  praise  but  the  secret  joy  found 
In  doing  her  duty.     Her  life  doth  abound, 

In  deeds  of  great  Faith  and  of  Hope  and  of  Love, 
All,  glorious  gems  in  her  bright  crown  above ; 
'Tis  this  that  consoles  her  and  urges  her  on. 
Her  cross  is  her  glory,  when  life's  work  is  done. 


H 


REST 

Lines  In  Memory  of  Our  Holy  Father,  Leo  XIIL 

Rest,  mighty  one!    Life's  battle  now  is  o'er — 

Thy  race  is  run,  thy  noble  work  is  ended. 

And  millions  now  thy  heavenly  aid  implore, 

For  thy  sweet  virtues  round  the  Throne  are  blended. 

Rest,  loving  heart!  that  beat  for  all  mankind. 
With  fondest  zeal  for  every  race  and  creed ; 
All  were  thy  children,  each  one  kept  in  mind, 
On  each  bestowed  the  loving  thought  and  deed. 

Rest,  brilliant  mind !  that  hath  subdued  a  world, 

From  which  flowed  truth  that  touched  the  hearts  of 
nations, 

Earth  bowed  before  thee,  from  thy  throne  were 
hurled 

Words  that  brought  homage  from  the  loftiest  sta- 
tions. 

Rest,   peaceful   soul;    sweet   rest   with    Our    Dear 

Lord ; 
Thy  trust  divine,  is  well  and  truly  done, 
God's  angels  bear  thee  to  thy  sure  reward, 
Thy  Christ-like  life  a  seraph's  crown  has  won. 


15 


IN  MAY 

A  wealth  of  perfume  fills  the  air ; 
Gentle  zephyrs  cool  the  day; 
'Neath  our  feet  the  flowers  start  ; 
Everything  that  soothes  the  heart 
Seems  to  fill  the  world,  in  May. 

Perched  upon  the  topmost  boughs 
All  about,  the  robins  sing; 
Rippling  notes  of  birds  and  rills 
Let  us  know  that  it  is  spring. 
In  loved  May  we  banish  care. 
Naught  but  glory  fills  the  air. 


i6 


A  VISION 

I  ofttimes  think  if  I  could  gaze 
Up  through  the  blue  ethereal  sky, 
And  penetrate  the  golden  haze 
That  circles  all  the  Blessed  on  High, 
What  would  I  see  in  that  bright  Land 
Of  boundless  bliss  and  purest  love? 
Would  I  behold  the  chosen  band 
Who  meek  adorn  the  realms  above? 

But  once,  in  slumber  as  I  lay, 
Methought,  'twas  given  unto  me 
To  view  the  great  elysian  Day, 
The  happy  spiritland  to  see. 
'Twas  not  a  mansion  built  of  gold 
And  all  adorned  with  gems  of  worth; 
But  flowery  vales  and  gardens  old 
So  like,  yet  fairer  than  this  earth. 

Adown  the  walks  all  blithesomely 
Passed  happy  forms  so  bright  and  gay. 
In  converse  sweet,  or  prayerfully 
Enjoying  that  most  perfect  Day: 
And  God  was  in  the  midst  of  all, 
His  presence  lent  a  rapture  there, 
His  smile  of  love  let  Glory  fall 
Supreme,  o'er  all  the  land  and  air: 


17 


All  Heaven  moved  in  sj^mphony, 
No  discord  broke  the  glorious  w^hole; 
But  hearts  were  linked  in  harmony 
In  Love's  sweet  union,  soul  to  soul ; 
While  all  around  glad  angels  sang 
With  soft  accord  so  low  and  sweet: 
The  air  with  blessed  music  rang, 
Ecstatic  joy,  grand  and  complete. 

I  thought,  ''How  happy  are  these  forms 
Who  rove  that  world  of  fadeless  day, 
Safe  sheltered  from  Life's  blasting  storms 
In  God's  eternal  golden  May! 
What  purity  of  soul  is  there! 
What  mystic  love!    what  supreme  bliss! 
Ah,  what  is  life  e'en  though  most  fair 
Compared  with  such  a  state  as  this?" 

But  all  at  once  the  vision  changed. 
And  once  again  I  lived  on  earth; 
Yet,   that  sweet  lingering  dream   will   last 
To  teach  me  Time's  eternal  worth ; 
Ah,  give  to  me  the  meanest  place, 
Dear  Lord,  in  that  bright  blessed  state. 
But  let  me  quit  Life's  luring  race 
And  stand  a  beggar  at  Thy  gate. 


i8 


FACE  TO  FACE 

To  Rt.  Reverend  Bishop  IMuldoon,  who  gave  con- 
solation  to  the  dying  at  the  terrible   Iroquois 
Theatre  lire,  Dec.  30,  1903 

A  dying  Christ  raised  high  above 

Six  hundred  struggling  souls ; 

The  awful  death   knell  in  their  hearts; 

They  count  the  mournful  tolls: 

Contortions  dread,  and  wailings  loud 
Smite  through  the  ghastly  place; 
A  struggling,  frenzied,  dying  crowd 
In  death's  clasp  interlace. 

They  look  on  high,  they  see  above 
The  agony,  their  own — 
The  figure  of  a  Deathless  Love— 
And  then  His  great  white  Throne. 

Their  souls  reach  out  and  kiss  the  cross. 
Their  suffering  is  o'er, 
And  Heaven  counts,  by  our  dread  loss, 
Six  hundred  sainted  more. 

O  Priest  of  God !  who,  in  the  hour 
Of  earth's  despairing  woe, 
Prov'st  to  the  world  thy  sacred  dower ; 
The  grace  thou  can'st  bestow. 

May  that  same  Form  of  Love  Divine 
That  gave  thee  strength  and  grace, 
Grant  thee  the  right  most  truly  thine ; 
In  death  to  see  His  Face! 


EVENING  SHADOWS 

In  the  shadows  of  the  evening, 

Then  fs  when   my  thoughts  take  wing, 

And  in  soaring  through  the  distance 

Memories  to  me  softly  cling: 

Then  I  hear  again  the  voices 

Of  the  loved  and  lost  of  yore, 

And  I  see  the  dear  dream  faces, 

Of  loved  ones  I'll  know  no  more. 

In  the  shadows  of  the  evening, 
Once  again  I  am  a  child, 
'Neath  the  loving  kind  protection 
Of  a  patient  mother  mild : 
Then  again  I  place  my  troubles 
In  her  all-consoling  heart, 
For  I  know  my  burden  lightens 
When  with  me  she  shares  a  part. 

In  the  shadows  of  the  evening, 
My  soul  longs  for  things  sublime, 
And  I  fain  would  cross  the  river 
Parting  life  and  endless  Time; 
For  I  know  that  naught  but  Heaven 
Can  bring  back  the  days  of  yore, 
And  that  supreme  joy  awaits  me 
Only  on  that  far-off  shore. 


20 


KEEP  ME  NEAR  TO  GOD 

Oft  I  am  sad  and  spirit  tried  and  lonely, 

The  world  seems  bleak  and  barren,  life  seems  vain, 

A  mist  hangs  o'er  my  brightest  hopes,  and  only 

My  inborn  Faith  keeps  back  woe's  pending  rain : 

Then  struggling  with  the  deep  despair  within  me. 

And  feeling  deep  the  keen  all-chastening  rod, 

I  cry,  "Dear  Mother  still  may'st  thou  my  hope  be, 

And  in  my  anguish,  keep  me  near  to  God. 

"Ah,  keep  me  near  to  God,  let  Him  but  help  me. 
And  give  me  grace  to  bear  my  trials  aright; 
Let  me  but  feel  that  He  will  e'er  my  guide  be 
And  soon  my  darkened  soul  will  glow  with  light; 
Ah,  let  me  but  accept  as  sweet  His  crosses. 
And  let  me  walk  the  way  His  saints  have  trod, 
Then  Dearest  Mother,  shall  I  love  life's  losses, 
So  Mary  hear  me,  keep  me  near  to  God." 


21 


AUF  WIEDERSEHEN 

How  sad  these  words,  how  plaintive  and  how  thrill- 
ing! 

"Until  we  meet  again"  so  often  said; 

Their  meaning  oft  the  heart  with  sorrow  filling, 

When  constant  hope  should  have  reigned  there  in- 
stead. 

"Auf  Wiedersehen,  my  dear  fond  Friend !" 
And  then  the  lips  will  quiver. 
For  oftentimes  that  meeting  is 
On  yonder  side  Death's  river. 

Ah,  what  is  life?     It  is  but  as  a  meeting, 

It  lasts  a  moment,  then  mid  tears  we  part; 

On  rolls  the  Time,  through  joy  and  sorrow  fleeting, 

But  leaving  in  its  path  some  broken  heart. 

"Auf  Wiedersehen,  my  dear  fond  Friend !" 
And  then  the  lips  will  quiver, 
For  oftentimes  that  meeting  is 
On  yonder  side  Death's  river. 

And  then  when  suddenly  will  ebb  the  tide. 

We  think,  "How  very  foolish,  O  how  weak 

To  mourn  for  those  long  vanished  from  our  side. 

Whom  but  through  Heaven's  gateway  we  may  seek." 

"Auf  Wiedersehen,  my  dear  fond  Friend !" 
And  then  the  lips  will  quiver. 
For  oftentimes  that  meeting  Is 
On  yonder  side  Death's  river. 


22 


A  LITTLE  ANGEL  FRIEND 

He  was  a  sweet  and  gentle  child, 
Of  but  eight  tender  years ; 
God  saw  his  charms  and  called  him 
From  this  saddened  vale  of  tears. 

Perhaps  among  the  cherubim 
There  was  some  special  place, 
That  for  its  full  completeness 
Just  lacked  that  angel  face. 

I  looked  upon  the  little  form 
Enshrined  'mid  flowers  white. 
And  thought,  "What  fitting  tribute 
To  a  soul  so  pure  and  bright!" 

For  just  as  he  has  taken  flight, 

So  shall  the  flowers  die, 

But  their  sweet  fragrance,  like  his  soul 

Is  borne  afar — on  High." 

"Dear  little  one  with  gentle  face, 
And  soft-lit  starry  eyes. 
What  wonder  that  God  called  you 
To  His  Happy  Paradise! 

"You  seem  to  me  a  flower  culled 
By  Our  Dear  Lord,  in  love. 
And  with  fond  care  transplanted 
To  your  proper  sphere  Above; 


23 


"For  mid  the  buds  and  blossoms 
You  have  spent  your  early  days, 
And  like  to  them  your  nature  was, 
In  all  its  guileless  ways." 

I  ofttimes  think  how  blessed  is  she 
Who  has  that  dear  child  dead. 
E'en  though  the  heart  with  sorrow  breaks, 
Though  tears  in  vain  are  shed ; 

For  when  at  last  the  hour  arrives, 
And  God  calls  her  away. 
And  when  her  eyes  will  ope'  upon 
An  everlasting  Day ; 

Among  the  sainted  worshippers 
She'll  see  a  well-known  face; 
He'll  beckon  her  in  Paradise, 
To  some  bright  special  place 

Which  he  has  guarded  with  his  prayers, 
Through  all  the  passing  years: 
He'll  place  a  crown  upon  her  brow, 
He'll  dry  away  her  tears. 

He'll  take  her  cross  and  lay  ft  down. 
An  offering  at  God's  feet. 
And  in  their  perfect  unity 
Her  joy  will  be  complete. 


24 


"Then  Harold,  though  lone  hearts  oft  miss 
Your  loving  arms  embrace, 
And  grieving,  yearn  for  just  one  glance 
At  your  Seraphic  face, 

"The  Light  of  Faith  will  brightly  burfl, 
To  show  the  soul's  sad  eyes. 
That  when  God  sends  afflictions 
They  are  blessings  in  disguise. 

"We  cannot  understand  the  grace 
By  which  He  gives  us  woe ; 
When  He  by  death  will  draw  the  veil 
That  hides  it — then  we'll  know, 

"And  then  with  wider  vision, 
We  shall  bless  the  smiting  Hand, 
That  took  you.  Darling,  from  all  care 
To  His  far  happy  Land." 


25 


SMILES 

Smiles  are  like  sunbeams 
Gleaming  o'er  the  face, 
Which  bring  unto  it  happiness 
And  shadows  from  it  chase. 
They  are  the  outward  picture 
Of  the  soul  within, 
So  radiant  in  times  of  joy, 
Obscured  when  griefs  begin. 

Smiles  are  little  meteors 
Brightening  up  the  way 
Of  the  sick  and  weary, 
Turning  night  to  day ; 
Little  angel  visitors 
From  a  golden  land, 
Teaching  us  life's  brightest  side* 
Oft  hard  to  understand. 

Smiles  are  starry  visions 
Of  true  Love  untold, 
Of  tender  aiming 
Yearning  for  the  Fold ; 
Little  links  which  bind  us, 
To  a  happier  Home, 
Tender  Guardians  watching  us 
Lest  from  Truth  we  roam. 


EASTER 

Gladly  ring  the  bells  of  Easter 
Bringing  joy  to  one  and  all — 
Christ,  Our  Lord  is  resurrected ; 
Let  our  spirits  prostrate  fall, 
And  in  meekest  adoration 
Join  the  angels'  loud  acclaim: 
"Glory  to  our  God,  our  Saviour, 
Conqueror  of  death  and  shame!" 

Sins  of  man  had  laid  Him  lowly 
In  the  sepulchre's  dark  gloom  ; 
But  He  rose  in  awful  splendor. 
Rose  triumphant  from  the  tomb. 
Death  no  more  can  have  its  terrors, 
Our  last  end  is  not  the  grave. 
For  that  wondrous  resurrection 
Gives  us  strength  our  souls  to  save. 

Then  ring  out,  O  Bells  of  Easter! 
In  your  most  melodious  chime. 
Send  the  news  from  earth  to  Heaven, 
Let  your  peals  sound  through  all  time 
Christ,  Our  Lord  is  resurrected. 
He  has  conquered  sin  and  shame: 
Glory  to  Our  God  on  Highest! 
Praise  and  Glory  to  His  Name! 


27 


I  AM  LONGING  TO  SEE  YOU  TO-NIGHT 

Through  the  gathering  gloom  of  the  twilight 

Comes  a  feeling  of  love  sublime, 

That  wakens  the  echoes  of  Thoughtland 

And  turns  back  the  waves  of  Time; 

A  feeling  so  deep  and  tender, 

It  brings  to  my  sad  soul.  Light, 

'Tis  a  longing  once  more  to  be  with  you, 

A  longing  to  see  you  to-night. 

We  are  severed  afar  in  Life's  valley, 
We  tread  each  our  separate  ways. 
Yet  each  in  our  moments  of  silence 
Looks  back  to  the  long  ago  days, 
And  in  memory  sweet  you  are  with  me 
As  in  those  dear  hours  so  bright, 
When  of  olden  we  sauntered  Life's  byways  ; 
I  am  longing  to  see  you  to-night. 

Ah,  Dear,  once  again  I  shall  see  you. 
Though  not  in  this  vale  of  farewells  ; 
I  shall  find  you  the  same  as  I  knew  you 
When  together  we  roved  the  green  dells : 
There  afar  in  that  Land  is  no  yearning, 
Where  all  things  are  joyous  and  bright. 
And  my  soul  will  not  hunger  in  saying, 
I  am  longing  to  see  you  to-night. 


28 


THE  ISLE  OF  SWEET  ERIN 

Far  away  o'er  the  sea  is  a  gem  of  an  isle, 
Deep  set  in  the  glory  of  sunshine's  sweet  smile, 
Whose  bright  emerald  hue  is  an  emblem  so  sure 
Of  the  hearts  that  best  love  it,  so  constant  and  pure: 

No  storms  can  e'er  dim  the  true  worth  of  its  green, 
Like  the  faith  of  it's  children,  the  rarest  e'er  seen; 
No  clouds  howe'er  dark  can  obscure  the  bright  ray 
Of  the  great  Irish  love,  pure  and  strong  as  the  day. 

Afar  from  that  land  many  wanderers  roam 

Whose  hearts    beat  to    music    of    "Home    dearest 

Home;" 
Though  scattered  abroad  along  many  a  shore, 
Their  prayers  are  for  Ireland,  the  land  they  adore. 

O  dear  Isle  of  Erin,  our  focus  of  love ! 
Sweet  symbol  on  earth  of  the  great  Home  Above! 
By  your  crucified  Faith  and  your  martyrdom,  may 
Your  dark  night  of  sorrow  soon  turn  to  glad  day! 

May  loyal  devotion  soon  win  freedom's  crown; 
Recalling  again  your  bright  days  of  renown ; 
May  true  Irish  virtues  shine  forth  more  and  more 
Is  the  prayer  of  your  children,  loved  Erin  asthore  I 


29 


THROUGH  DEATH  TO  LIFE 

To  the  memory  of  Very  Rev.  Dean  Kilroy,  who 
died  at  Stratford  Jan.  12,  1904. 

The  calm  and  gentle  angel,  Death, 
Has  folded  in  his  strong  embrace 
One  whom  we  loved — has  borne  him  hence 
To  fill  on  High  some  special  place. 

We  call  him  dead,  and  mourn  his  loss. 
But  yonder  in  the  Home  of  Rest 
No  more  he  bears  his  earthly  cross  ; 
He  lives  in  Heaven  with  the  Blessed. 

How  oft  we'll  miss  the  words  of  cheer, 
The  pleasant  smile,  the  loving  voice, 
That  drew  all  hearts  when  he  was  here. 
And  made  our  saddened  souls  rejoice ! 

How  oft,  as  years  roll  swiftly  by, 
Our  lips  will  move  in  silent  prayer, 
To  our  dear  pastor,  who  on  High 
Still  holds  for  us  his  fondest  care ! 

His  flock  have  lost  their  dearest  friend, 
But  why  make  murmur  or  complaint  ? 
For  when  that  noble  life  did  end, 
God's  Kingdom  gained  another  saint. 


30 


A  LONGING 

Come  to  me,  sweet  one,  of  lost  baby  days, 
With  your  pretty  blue  eyes  and  dark  hair, 
Step  from  that  happy  mysterious  Land 
And  answer  my  lifeburdened  prayer. 
Let  me  but  hear  once  again  your  dear  voice 
With  it's  rhythmical  notes  full  of  glee, 
Tell  me  what  pleasures  await  me  up  there 
When  this  fast-fettered  spirit  is  free. 

Time  has  been  long  since  you  bid  me  adieu 

And  left  me  to  journey  alone; 

Faith  has  been  tried  in  the  struggle  for  life. 

And  the  spirit,  world-sick,  sighs  for  Home. 

Could  you  come  back  to  impart  but  one  smile, 

And  clasp  me  again  as  of  yore. 

Ah,  you  would  give  me  new  courage  for  life, 

And  make  me  love  Heaven  the  more. 


31 


MY  FRIEND  OF  LONG  AGO 

Sweet  Friend  of  mine,  and  can  it  be 
That  never  more  together,  we 
Shall  walk  among  the  scenes  of  yore, 
So  fondly  loved  by  thee  and  me? 

I  linger  all  alone,  and  think 
On  those  long  vanished  halcyon  days, 
When  Life  was  sunshine,  cloudless  skies, 
And  years  brought  only  lovely  Mays. 

Ofttimes  I  have  some  strange  sweet  dream, 
And  we  are  schoolmates  once  again ; 
All  Nature  sings  her  hymns  of  praise 
And  Heaven  responds  in  grand  Amen. 

Together  we  commune,  sweet  thoughts 
Of  futures  good,  not  worldly  grand 
Are  our  day's  constant  theme ; 
Let  Faith  and  Love  our  souls  expand. 

But  with  a  start  I  sudden  wake 
And  find  'twas  but  an  airy  dream. 
The  past  is  gone  ne'er  to  return 
Save  in  kind  sleep,  yet  Annie  e'en 

Though  I'm  awake,  the  music  stays. 
Of  that  old  hallowed  Long  Ago; 
Sweet  notes  from  our  lost  childhood's  days 
In  rippling  measures  come  and  go : 


32 


But  one  loved  chord  is  missed  among 
Those  melodies  so  near  divine  ; 
Because  your  voice  is  far  away 
The  music  lacks  that  chord  sublime: 

Yet,  Dearest!  though  those  silent  notes 
Impair  the  glory  of  the  w^hole, 
Their  sad  sweet  absence  teaches  me 
That  we  are  nearer — soul  to  soul. 


33 


THE  MUSIC  OF  LIFE 

I  played  upon  the  organ 

A  blithe  and  merry  lay, 

As  tuneful  as  the  singing 

Of  happy  birds  in  May: 

It  rippled  forth  from  keys  of  pearl, 

It  filled  my  soul  with  glee; 

All  earth  seemed  fair,  so  free  from  care 

And  beautiful  to  me: 

But  soon  the  tune  was  changed  into 

A  sad  funereal  dirge, 

And  o'er  life's  peaceful  waters 

Death's  angry  waves  did  surge; 

Fond  loving  friends  were  swept  beneath 

The  all  unpitying  tide, 

And  those  I  held  the  dearest 

Were  taken  from  my  side. 

And  now  the  notes  are  sad  and  low 
And  filled  with  deep  despair; 
The  echoes  of  a  weary  soul 
Bowed  low  by  Fate  are  there; 
The  brilliant  hopes  are  blighted, 
The  wondrous  dreams  all  vain, 
The  tired  spirit  langour 
Too  weak  to  strive  again. 


34 


But  ah,  the  music  changes 

To  a  melody  Divine, 

And  I  find  my  soul  far  reaching 

Through  the  long  lone  halls  of  Time; 

There  I  see  the  mystic  mansion, 

And  I  hear  the  angels  play 

The  grand  ecstatic  melody 

Of  Heaven's  symphonic  Day: 

I  see  the  friends  who  loved  me 

The  dearest  and  the  best, 

Their  happy  faces  glowing 

In  peace  and  blessed  rest; 

Life's  notes  of  woe  are  turned  to  Joy 

And  fill  the  heavenly  air; 

God's  music  holds  no  minor  strain. 

No  chord  of  woe  is  there. 


35 


AUTUMN 

Saddest  season  of  the  year, 

Gentle  Autumn,  lone  and  dreary, 

With  thy  breezes  wailing  near, 
Softly  bidding  rest,  the  weary. 

Melancholy  do  ye  sigh, 

Winds  af  autumn  sadly  calling. 
As  a  funeral  dirge  ye  cry 

Mourning  for  the  dead  leaves  falling. 

Leaves  of  autumn  drooping  slowly, 
Blushing  crimson  as  with  shame, 

Soon  the  cold,  damp  earth  so  lowly, 
Will  thy  fading  beauty  claim. 

Dreary  as  thou  art,  we  love  thee, 
Mourner  for  the  summer  gone! 

And  with  keen  regret  we  part  thee, 
Lovely  Autumn,  lone  and  wan. 


36 


THREE  JOURNEYS 

Every  day  when  the  gloaming  comes, 
The  sweet,  sweet  hour  of  fantasies, 
I  take  a  trip  to  some  foreign  land 
Or  travel  the  world  of  ecstasies. 

Sometimes  I  visit  the  Long  Ago, 
And  O,  the  children  welcome  me, 
E'en  the  people  now  so  old 
Seem  as  blithe  as  they  used  to  be. 

We  sing  the  songs  and  play  the  tunes 
And  talk  in  old  time  mirthfulness, 
The  flowers  bloom  as  in  da^^s  of  yore, 
And  nod  with  old  time  gracefulness: 

But  of  a  sudden  I  leave  the  Past, 
And  visit  the  land  of  Far-away; 
Again  I  find  sweet  friends  of  old. 
And  some  I  left  but  yesterday. 

The  same  dear  ones  who  beckoned  me 
In  the  beautiful  Past,  so  free  from  care, 
Are  in  this  mystic  borderland ; 
How  strange,  it  seems,  they  should  be  there! 

They  smile  in  the  old  familiar  w^ay, 
They  beckon  me  to  a  special  place, 
But  their  forms  are  dimmed  by  golden  haze, 
And  the  holy  sheen  of  supernal  grace. 


37 


At  last  I  reach  the  Present  land, 
So  full  of  sorrow,  care  and  strife, 
My  friends  steal  softly  from  my  side 
To  the  hidden  charms  of  the  mystic  Life ; 

But  while  fond  memory  loves  to  roam 
Through  the  many  climes  of  eternal  Time, 
I  still  can  see  the  ones  I  love, 
And  for  aye,  unite  their  souls  to  mine. 


?8 


I  MISS  YOU 

I  think  of  you  to-night,  Dear, 

I'm  lonely  far  away, 
You  are  so  far  from  sight,  Dear, 

I  miss  you  day  by  day. 

The  hours  drag  slowly  by,  Dear, 
They  bring  no  peace  of  mind. 

'Tis  exile  to  be  banished.  Dear, 
From  one  so  true  and  kind. 

I  think  of  you  to-night,  Dear, 
The  day  has  been  so  long, 

I  miss  your  voice  so  sweet.  Dear, 
More  sweet  than  rarest  song. 

I  would  that  I  could  see  you.  Dear, 
Could  touch  your  hand  and  brow; 

I  miss  you,  yes,  I  miss  you.  Dear, 
I  want  to  see  you  now. 


39 


FORGIVENESS 

You  ask  of  me  forgiveness, 

'Tis  freely  given  thee: 

Since  those  words  of  estrangement 

This  life  has  been  to  me 

So  lonely  and  so  very  sad ; 

Would  that  your  trust  again  I  had ! 

You  ask  me  to  forgive  you, 

What  have  I  to  forgive  ? 

Ah,  since  that  darkened  hour 

I've  almost  ceased  to  live, 

O  take  me  to  your  heart  again, 

Your  loyal  friend  therein  to  reign. 

You  sent  to  me  a  token, 

A  little  floral  gift  : 

How  dearly  do  I  love  it ! 

It  seems  the  weight  to  lift, 

Of  those  sad  words  from  off  my  heart, 

Those  words  when  we  for  aye  did  part. 

'Tis  I  who  should  repent,  Dear, 
'Tis  I  who  should  implore 
Your  kind  heart  to  forgive  me, 
To  love  me  just  once  more; 
And  to  accept  my  trust  unbroken, 
In  answer  to  your  floral  token. 


40 


A  LITTLE  GIRL  I  KNOW 

I  know  a  little  girl  with  azure  eyes, 

The  tint  that  makes  most  dear  the  summer  skies, 

And  golden  curls  by  sunbeams  tossed, 

Like  rays  of  light  on  banks  embossed : 

She  minds  me  of  the  merry  month  of  May, 

So  gentle,  mild  is  she  the  live-long  day. 

She  passes  like  a  dream  of  grace, 

Lithe  rhythmic  form,  and  angel  face, 

She  seems  the  sort  of  fairy  sent  to  chase  Life's  storms 

a\\'ay, 
And  scatter  gleams  of  gladness  like  the  joyous  sunny 

May. 


41 


LOVELAND 

0  where  is  the  kingdom  called  Loveland, 
Ye  sages,  geographers  wise? 

Is  it  rich  and  extensive,  progressive? 
'Neath  cold  or  'neath  warm  sunny  skies  ? 

1  searched  it  afar  o'er  the  mountains. 
In  Africa's  hot  scorching  plain, 
Mid  the  countries  of  Asia  I  sought  it, 
In  the  hope  some  knowledge  to  gain. 

Through  America's  vast  grassy  prairies, 
On  Australia's  far  sea-washed  shore, 
In  the  circles  both  Arctic,  Antarctic, 
Through  China,  Malay,  Singapore: 

Through  Arabia,  Greece,  Turkey,  Greenland, 
Alaska  and  Canada  cold; 
Through  regions  of  ice,  snow  and  winter, 
Through  regions  of  pure  shining  gold. 

At  last,  weary-hearted  and  tired, 
I  found  it,  O  beautiful  thing! 
For  dear  little  Lapland  was  Loveland, 
And  a  sweet  bouncing  baby  was  King. 


42 


A  SOUL'S  SORROW 

Just  a  little  bit  of  heartache, 
But  I  hid  it  far  from  sight; 
It  but  turned  my  joy  to  sorrow, 
Turned  my  day  into  dark  night: 

And  I  smiled  on  all  around  me, 
That  they  would  not  see  the  pain, 
Though  within  my  soul's  lone  chamber 
Leaden  tears,  they  fell  like  rain. 

Just  a  cross  laid  on  my  shoulders 
Small  it  was,  but  Oh  it's  weight: 
How  it  crushed  my  spirit  downward! 
Yet  I  bore  it,  early,  late: 

And  I  smiled  on  all  around  me 
That  they  would  not  see  my  woe, 
But  the  cross,  it  heav'ly  pressed  me 
And  the  heartache  would  not  go. 

Then  I  strolled  one  silent  even 
To  a  church,  and  there  before 
A  dim  altar,  lit  by  moonbeams 
I  knelt  sadly  to  adore  ; 

And  I  cried,  "My  cross  is  heavy, 
Wearily  it  weighs  me  down," 
But  a  Voice  came,  sweet  and  gentle, 
"Bear  thy  cross  and  gain  a  crown. 

Bear  thy  cross  and  bright  adorn  it 
With  the  flowers  of  Faith  and  Love, 
It  will  win  for  thee  a  garland 
Of  pure  bliss,  in  realms  above." 


43 


There  I  knelt  and  could  not  answer; 
A  soul  silence  o'er  me  came, 
And  my  spirit  seemed  on  fire 
With  Love's  all-consuming  flame. 

Then  again  the  Voice  came  to  me, 
"Think  of  Me  when  sore  oppressed, 
Place  your  burdens  on  My  altar 
And  your  trials  will  be  blessed." 

Low  I  murmured  through  the  stillness, 
"Lord,  within  Thy  Sacred  Heart 
I  do  place  my  soul's  deep  sorrow, 
Do  Thou  with  me  share  a  part." 

All  at  once  a  weight  seemed  lifted, 
My  soul  filled  with  joy  supreme; 
Seemed  it  to  me  as  the  memory 
Of  some  strange  uncertain  dream; 

But  I  knew  my  cross  was  lighter, 
And  I  felt  my  soul  adore; 
For  Our  Lord,  He  shared  my  burden 
And  the  heartache  was  no  more. 


44 


HEAVEN 

When  a  child  I  pictured  Heaven 

As  a  beautiful  land  of  gold, 

All  sun-illum'ed  and  sparkling 

With  brilliancy  untold — 

Where  saints  all-haloed  wandered 

In  raiment  white  as  snow, 

And  angels  chanted  praises, 

In  brightness  all  aglow: 

But  among  the  holy  seraphim 

Was  no  familiar  face. 

And  no  cherub  ever  beckoned  me 

To  any  special  place ; 

And  I  thought,  *'It  must  be  lonely 

In  Heaven  so  far  away ; 

On  this  earth  with  fond,  sweet  friends 

Ah,  I  would  rather  stay." 

At  last  my  little  playmates 

Left  many  a  vacant  place, 

And  in  my  heart,  sad  yearnings 

For  many  a  vanished  face — 

Again  I  pictured  Heaven ; 

It's  cherubim  were  there, 

And  aureoled  saints  still  worshipped 

In  earnest  holy  prayer: 

But  faces  were  now  familiar. 

They   smiled  in   friendship  true; 

And  that  they  interceded 

For  my  poor  soul,  I  knew: 

So  now  I  feel  a  yearning 

In  that  dear  land  to  roam ; 

For  Heaven,  I  know,  is  my  port  of  rest, 

My  truest  and  happiest  home. 


45 


TWO  VOYAGES 

On  a  peaceful  ocean  a  ship  set  sail, 
'Twas  gently  driven  by  a  summer  gale; 
Like  a  phantom  vessel  it  glided  on 
It's  course  directed  to  the  setting  sun: 

But  afar  from  land  was  an  angry  sea, 
And  billows  sported  both  wild  and  free, 
While  cruel  rocks  tore  the  vessel's  side 
And  it  drifted  helpless  on  a  seething  tide ; 

Still  the  loyal  compass  was  good  and  true 
And  brought  her  bark  all  perils  through, 
And  it  reached  the  haven,  it's  voyage  done 
In  the  western  land  of  the  setting  sun. 

A  human  bark  started  out  on  Life, 
Its  course  beguiled  from  all  care  and  strife; 
But  as  years  rolled  on,  came  temptation's  harm 
And  the  bark  tossed  wildly  In  grave  alarm. 

Still  the  loyal  conscience  was  good  and  true 
And  brought  her  vessel  all  perils  through, 
And  it  reached  the  Haven,  it's  voyage  done 
In  the  Blessed  Land  of  the  setting  sun. 


46 


HEIMWEH 

0  what  this  feeling,  this  dull  dreary  feeling, 
That  comes  to  me  so  oft  at  eventide, 
When  sitting  all  alone  and  meditating 

On  those  from  whom  stern  Fate  did  me  divide? 

It  is  a  pain — a  longing  for  the  dear  ones, 

A  pang  that  rends  my  heart  at  thoughts  of  home, 

1  sadly  sigh — my  soul  moves  gently  outward, 
And  soars  into  the  darkening  realms  of  gloam. 
Ah,  sad  sweet  yearning  for  Life's  truest  treasures 
When  tossed  about  upon  Life's  billowy  sea. 

The  more  we  found  in  home  earth's  greatest  pleas- 
ures, 
E'en  so  the  heartache  all  the  more  must  be. 
I've  traveled  much  and  have  ofttimes  seemed  happy, 
I've  found  dear  friends,  sweet  friends,  both  true  and 

tried. 
But  even  they  cannot  dispel  the  anguish. 
Forever  is  my  soul  unsatisfied. 

Sweet  home  of  childhood — home  of  joy — of  mother! 
Sweet  sacred  spot  which  nursed  my  earliest  years ! 
For  you  I  long  each  day  and  hour  of  lifetime. 
My  cause  of  joy — my  solace  for  all  fears. 
Of  you  I  dream,  when,  weary  of  day's  clamor 
I  nurse  my  thoughts  within  the  quiet  gloam, 
Ah,  may  my  soul  keep  ever  ever  near  thee, 
My  dearest  friend  on  all  this  earth,  my  home ! 


47 


OCTOBER,  MONTH   OF  THE   HOLY 
ANGELS 

This  month  with  all  its  changing  hues, 
Its  beauty  rare  of  hazy  skies; 
With  zephyrs  mild  that  whisper  soft, 
Whose  charms  we  all  so  dearly  prize; 

This  lovely  month  of  dreamy  quiet. 
When  e'en  the  murmurs  hold  us  still, 
When  saddened  souls  renew  lost  hope 
And  with  the  life  of  Nature,  thrill; 

Our  Holy  Faith  has  given  in  love, 
This  peaceful  time  of  gentle  sighs 
To  those  dear  spirits  who  are  charged 
With  guiding  us  to  Paradise; 

And  fitting  time  it  truly  seems. 
For  whispers  soft  steal  to  our  ear. 
It  may  be  'tis  great  Nature's  voice 
Or  our  dear  guardians  hovering  near. 

But  gazing  on  great  Nature's  charms 
Our  hearts  are  lifted  up  to  God ; 
Mayhap  the  angels  brought  the  thought. 
But  we  are  reverently  awed. 

A  spirit  seems  to  whisper  low, 

"Kneel  down  before  such  grandeur,  pray  I' 

Our  wearied  souls  in  silence  speak 

The  words  our  lips  refuse  to  say. 


48 


Dear  loved  October!  month  of  calm, 
Of  rippling  waves  and  running  streams, 
To  souls  you  are  a  soothing  balm 
That  rivals  e'en  their  brightest  dreams. 

Your  mystic  blues  and  lulling  notes 
Attune  our  hearts  to  nobler  things; 
A  glimpse  of  Heaven  and  angels  bright, 
October  to  the  mortal  brings. 


45 


A  MEMORY 

Come  you  out  from  the  gloom  to-night, 
Sweet  fond  Friend,  whom  I  long  to  see, 
Bearing  with  you  those  smiles  so  bright 
That  won  the  trust  of  my  soul  from  me. 
All  wrapt  in  haze  and  before  me  now, 
You  speak  with  those  lips  I  loved  to  hear. 
And  the  look  sublime  on  your  lofty  brow 
Bids  me  know  you  hold  me  dear. 

Still  in  your  beautiful,  new-found  life, 

You  give,  you  say  a  thought  to  me? 

Ask  if  I  suffer  woe  or  strife. 

Or  if  like  you  I  am  glad  and  free? 

You  would  come  back  to  console  me  again 

Oft  for  an  hour,  and  leave  your  bliss  ? 

Would  tear  yourself  from  the  arms  of  Love 

To  press  on  my  brow  sweet  Friendship's  kiss? 

Bid  me  adieu.     Farewell  loved  One, 

Melt  into  haze  and  dimness  again. 

'Twas  but  a  thought — I  am  alone, 

Memory's  sobs  are  all  in  vain. 

You  have  your  world  and  I  have  mine 

Illumined  both  by  the  dear  dead  Past, 

And  over  each  life  will  ever  shine 

Sweet  Friendship's  rays,  while  Life  will  last. 


50 


THE  BETTER  PART 

To  a  Friend. 

I  sometimes  think,  when  looking  on  your  kind  and 

soulful  face, 
Lit  with  Reflection's  mildest  beams,  and  Heaven's 

serenest  grace. 
That  you  could  not  be  as  you  are,  had  God  you  not 

destined 
For  something  higher  than  the  common  life  of  hu- 
mankind. 
You  must  oft  times  have  trod  that  vale  of  sweet 

ecstatic  dreams, 
Where  saints  have  heard  the  lowly  notes,  and  caught 

stray  passing  gleams 
Of  Heaven's  grand  Beatitude.    You  must  have  felt 

such  Bliss 
Else,  whence  your  holy  attributes?  A  nature  such  as 

this 
Is  given  to  those  alone,  who  are  the  favored  ones  of 

God, 
Whom  He  doth  wish  the  nearest,  'neath  His  mild 

and  chastening  rod. 
Who  are  His  chosen  messengers,  to  travel  in   His 

way 
By  brightening  up  the  lives  of  men,  and   turning 

night  to  day. 


51 


*Tis  not  the  mission  of  us  all,  to  scatter  seeds  of  love, 
And  help  poor  wearied  souls  to  see  the  crown  of 

Hope,  above. 
Ah  no,  that  Christ-like  Happiness  is  held  by  but  a 

few, 
None  worthier  possesses  it,  methinks,  my  Dear,  than 

you; 
So  treasure  it,  the  God-like  gift,  the  noblest  virtue 

given. 
It  makes  of  mortals,  seraphin — it  makes  of  earth  a 

Heaven. 


S2 


THE  STORM 

The  thunder  rolls  with  rumblfng  roar; 
Long  veins  of  fire  streak  the  sky; 
The  housedog  cowers  'neath  the  stair ; 
The  frightened  barnfowl  homeward  fly; 

Large  slow  approaching  drops  come  down, 
Prognostications  of  the  rain ; 
The  hurried  street  folk  bend  their  heads 
And  onward  rush,  but  all  in  vain. 

With  louder  peals  and  longer  streaks 
The  storm   comes  dark'ning  dead'ning  down; 
Great  fierce  clouds  black  as  inky  night 
Low  hover  o'er  the  frightened  town. 

The  beat  of  rain,  the  crash  of  trees. 
The  hailstones  knocking  at  the  door, 
The  pools  of  water  trickling  through 
Stray  chinks  upon  the  once  dry  floor; 

All  these  sure  signs  of  Heaven's  wrath,  ' 

Make  old  folks  sit  in  grave  alarm. 
While  little  children  breathless  look 
And  terror-stricken  watch  the  storm. 


53 


But  ah,  what's  this  ?  The  storm  has  ceased, 
Low  rumbling  echoes  bid  farewell 
The  sun  shines  forth  in  beams  of  joy. 
And  smiles  upon  hill,  field  and  dell. 

A  rainbow  spans  the  peaceful  sky, 
God's  promise  unto  mortals  given 
That  all  Life's  storms  will  swiftly  pass 
And  vanish  'neath  the  Light  of  Heaven. 


54 


MAY 

A  sprightly  maid  all  flower  bedecked, 
With  sky-blue  eyes  and  golden  hair 
Came  tripping  down  Time's  silvery  vale, 
A  nymph  of  grace,  divinely  fair. 

She  cast  around  a  sunny  smile, 
The  sweet  blue  vi'lets  peeped  their  heads, 
While  flowers  of  many  shades  and  hues 
Arose  from  out  their  gloomy  beds. 

She  spoke  in  mother  Nature's  ear; 
The  rippling  rills  began  to  sing, 
The  winds  low  murmurs  gently  lured 
The  tardy  birds  to  soar  on  wing. 

New  sprouting  grass  spread  o'er  the  earth 
A  carpet  of  the  richest  hue. 
While  over  all  the  lovely  scene 
Was  God's  great  canopy  of  blue. 

Earth's  children  bowed  before  the  throne 
Of  this  most  royal  princess  dear, 
Sweet  May!  of  loveliness  the  Queen, 
The  fairest  child  of  all  the  year. 


55 


JULY  VACATION 

The  rare,  rare  days  of  June  have  passed 
With  their  lovely  roses  of  white  and  red, 
And  fierce  July's  sunscorching  heat 
Has  burned  their  petals  and  laid  them  dead. 

The  fields  of  grain  have  a  withered  hue ; 
As  on  Sahara  the  hot  wind  blows. 
The  whole  earth  wears  a  look  of  pain, 
The  sky  with  a  fiery  glimmer  glows. 

Ah,  well  for  him  who  can  hie  away 
From  the  busy  city's  stifling  mart, 
And  in  the  quiet  of  rural  dales 
Find  sweet  repose  near  nature's  heart. 

Who,  forgetful  of  old  Sol's  fierce  gleams. 
Can  lay  him  down  by  the  babbling  brook, 
And  throw  the  city's  cares  aside 
In  the  Heavenly  bliss  of  some  country  nook; 

For  there  will  he  find  in  the  warble  of  bird 
A  lullaby  sweet  for  his  tired  mind. 
And  the  rippling  rills  will  call  to  him 
While  fanned  by  the  clover-laden  wind; 

The  restful  peace  of  the  country  quiet 
Will  banish  the  past  year's  strife  from  his  soul, 
His  thoughts  are  bright  with  the  glamor  of  Hope 
As  he  dreams  of  another  trial  for  the  goal. 

Just  one  sweet  hour  in  such  a  spot. 
Is,  for  every  ill,  a  certain  balm. 
And  a  city's  cares  can  be  lulled  to  rest 
In  the  chaste  retreat  of  a  country  calm. 

56 


MY  PICTURE  BOOK 

Would  like  to  see  my  picture  book  ? 
Dear  Friend,  with  wistful  eyes, 
Or  did  you  never  dream  that  I 
Possessed  so  rare  a  prize  ? 

But  come,  I'll  turn  it's  pages  o'er, 
(My  savings  of  long  years,) 
No  doubt,  they  may  excite  your  smiles, 
Though  some  will  draw  your  tears. 

Yes,  they  are  faithful  copies 
Of  great  masterpieces,  all, 
By  famous  artists  painted 
Whose  names  I  now  recall; 

For  "Memory,"  "Love"  and  "Long  Ago' 
Did  paint  these  pictures  rare. 
So  now  you  will  not  wonder 
Why  I  treasure  them  with  care : 

They  show  my  childhood's  happy  days, 
My  golden  summertime, 
When  Heaven  was  so  near  to  me 
And  Life's  bells  were  in  chime. 

My  baby  playmates  on  the  sward. 
My  later  loved  child  friends. 
The  blissful  moments,  happy  joys 
Which  God  in  kindness  sends. 

But  here's  a  picture — nay,  don't  grieve, 
For  why  should  your  tears  start  ? 
A  little  schoolgirl's  lonely  grave 
So  sacred  to  my  heart. 


57 


We  loved  each  other  many  years, 
Then  she  was  called  away, 
I  left  alone,  I  missed  her  so. 
For  months  I  could  not  play; 

A  dreary  weight  of  sadness  came 
And  crushed  my  spirit  down; 
Earth  grew  so  very  dark  to  me, 
Kind  Heaven  seemed  to  frown. 

Her  picture  is  within  my  heart. 
None  other  takes  it's  place ; 
Some  day  in  that  dear  far-ofiE  land 
I'll  look  upon  her  face. 

But  come,  another  one  I'll  show 
Before  I  close  my  book — 
You  know  it?   By  the  loving  smile 
And  the  all-patient  look? 

My  mother.    Yes,  the  sweetest  one, 
The  dearest  and  the  best, 
I  love  my  pictures,  still  for  this 
I'd  barter  all  the  rest. 


58 


HYMN  FOR  LENT 

At  Thy  feet,  O  Jesus! 
Kneel  I  to  implore 
Pardon  for  offenses, 
Grace  to  love  Thee  more. 

Take  Thou  up  my  burdens, 
Place  them  in  Thy  Heart, 
Give  me  strength  to  follow — 
In  Thy  griefs  take  part. 

Take  my  hand  and  lead  me 
Over  worldly  ways. 
I  would  seek  Thy  Kingdom, 
Love  Thee  all  my  days: 

But  I'm  weak  and  lowly 
Oft  times  sore  oppressed ; 
Still  Thy  words  have  promised, 
"I  will  give  thee  rest." 

Therefore  am  I  prostrate 
At  Thy  sacred  feet, 
Life  with  Thee  is  Heaven 
Earthly  trials,  sweet. 

I  can  hear  Thy  pardon, 
Now  I  love  Thee  more, 
May  I  never  wander 
From  Thee,  I  implore. 

In  the  lonely  shadow 
Of  Thy  cross,  I'll  bide, 
Till  Death's  angel  bears  me 
To  my  Saviour's  side. 

59 


FEAST  OF  PURIFICATION 

O  mother,  thou  so  sweet  and  good 

Who  art  so  near  divine! 

Why  needest  thou  to  purify 

A  guileless  soul  like  thine? 

Thou  who  from  all  time  wast  preserved 

Exempt  from  every  stain — 

And  yet,  in  deep  humility, 

Thou  strivest  grace  to  gain. 

Sweet  mother!  teach  us  to  be  pure 
And  humble,  like  to  thee ; 
Help  us  to  cast  aside  all  sin 
And  more  contrite  to  be. 
So  may  we  be  thy  children  dear 
With  hearts  so  like  to  thine. 
We  would  offer  them  in  holy  love 
Before  thy  blessed  shrine. 

The  choicest  gifts  that  we  could  make 

Of  rarest  lovely  flowers. 

Would  not  be  so  acceptable 

As  those  poor  hearts  of  ours ; 

Then  Mary,  by  thy  purity 

We  fervently  implore, 

O  bring  us  nearer  unto  thee, 

And  make  us  love  thee  more. 


60 


A  LITTLE  MAID  OF  THREE 

Little  maid  from  Fairyland, 

Vision  of  delight! 
Nymph  of  mystic  Airyland 

Beautiful  and  bright! 

Rosy  cheeked  with  crown  of  gold, 

Eyes  of  Heaven's  blue 
Hiding  mysteries  untold, 

In  their  depths  so  true. 

You  are  such  a  dream  of  grace 

As  you  flit  around, 
With  your  pretty  baby  face, 

And  your  notes  low  sound. 

Oft,  I  wonder  did  you  roam 

From  some  Blessed  Isle, 
Here,  to  gladden  up  a  home 

And  our  woes  beguile! 

Will  you,  when  your  task  is  o'er, 

Steal  as  soft  away 
To  the  cherubs  on  the  Shore 

Of  Eternal  Day? 

Ah,  we  feel,  since  you  are  here. 

Heaven  is  our  own. 
And  in  death,  you'll  draw  us  near 

To  the  Mercy  Throne. 


6i 


THE  RIVER  AVON 

When  weary  at  eve  In  the  great  foreign  city, 

And  longing  for  something  to  bring  my  heart  rest, 

I  seek  from  the  throngs  of  lone  strangers  no  pity, 
But  sigh  for  the  land  I  love  dearest  and  best. 

And  by  the  sweet  Avon,  In  dreams  I  oft  wander, 
And  watch  the  bright  flashes  of  sun-glinted  waves  ; 

I  mind  not  that  time  I  thus  ruthlessly  squander 
When  fond   days  of  childhood  my   memory  en- 
slaves. 

I  hear  It's  low  murmurs  when  silently  passing 

The  old  cherished    school,  where,    subduing    It's 
noise, 

It  rippled  on  dreamily,  never  distressing 

The  studious  ardor  of  bright  girls  and  boys  . 

O  green  banks  of  Avon,  as  lovely  and  peaceful 

As  those  classic  banks  of  sweet  Fancy's  own  child. 

To  those  who  best  love  you,  how  quiet  and  easeful! 
With  you  tired  nature  Is  sweetly  beguiled. 


62 


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